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Fresh Spring Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Fresh Spring Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette for a Zesty Boost

This Fresh Spring Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette is a vibrant, healthy dish that brings the freshness of spring to your table.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 150

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 6 oz spring mix salad greens A tender base for your fresh spring salad; feel free to swap with other mixed greens!
  • 2 oz baby arugula Adds a delightful peppery kick; substitute with rocket if you can’t find it.
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas Perfect for sweetness and crunch; ensure strings are removed for the best bite.
  • 5 medium radishes Provide a pop of color and flavor; feel free to use turnips for a different taste.
  • 4 stalks tender asparagus Shaved for lovely texture; zucchini can step in as an alternative if needed.
  • 1/4 cup fresh dill and mint leaves Infuses the salad with aromatic freshness; basil or parsley can also work well here.
For the Vinaigrette
  • 3 tbsp fresh lemon juice Essential for a bright and zesty dressing; always opt for fresh juice over bottled!
  • 1 tsp lemon zest Intensifies the lemon flavor; skip it if you’re short on time but the taste will be less vibrant.
  • 1 small shallot, minced Adds depth to the dressing; green onions can be a milder substitute if desired.
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard Helps emulsify your vinaigrette; any mustard type may be used, but the flavor may vary.
  • 0.5 cup extra virgin olive oil Provides richness; if needed, a neutral oil can substitute here.
  • 0.5 tsp sea salt Enhances all flavors; be sure to adjust depending on your taste preference.
  • 0.25 tsp cracked black pepper For a touch of seasoning; can be omitted if you prefer a milder flavor.

Equipment

  • Sharp Knife
  • Mandoline
  • Medium jar or bowl
  • Large chilled bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by preparing your vibrant selection of vegetables for the Fresh Spring Salad. Remove the tough strings from the sugar snap peas and slice them lengthwise. Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, shave the radishes into translucent rounds. For the asparagus, gently peel it to create delightful ribbons. Set aside these colorful components to maintain their freshness.
  2. In a medium jar or bowl, prepare the zesty lemon vinaigrette that will elevate your Fresh Spring Salad. Combine the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, and minced shallot. While whisking or sealing the jar, slowly add the extra virgin olive oil to emulsify the dressing until it thickens slightly. Season with sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste for a balanced flavor.
  3. Next, grab a large chilled bowl and mix the salad greens. Add the spring mix and baby arugula, allowing their tender and peppery leaves to serve as the salad's foundation. Take a moment to enjoy the fresh aroma and vibrant look of the greens, creating a beautiful base for your Fresh Spring Salad.
  4. Carefully fold in the prepared sugar snap peas, shaved radishes, and tender asparagus ribbons into the greens. Gently toss the mixture using clean hands or a pair of large tongs, ensuring that the colorful veggies are evenly distributed among the greens for a delightful presentation in your Fresh Spring Salad.
  5. For a fragrant finish, scatter the torn fresh dill and mint leaves over the salad. These herbs bring an aromatic lift, enhancing the overall flavor and visual appeal of your Fresh Spring Salad. Take a moment to appreciate the added textures and aromas from these vibrant green herbs.
  6. Finally, drizzle the prepared lemon vinaigrette over the entire salad, ensuring every piece gets a chance to absorb its brightness. Gently toss the salad again, using your hands or tongs to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if necessary, before presenting your stunning Fresh Spring Salad to your guests.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gSodium: 200mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Store any undressed salad in an airtight container with a dry paper towel for up to 2–3 days to absorb extra moisture and keep greens crisp. It's not recommended to freeze the Fresh Spring Salad as it contains delicate vegetables that may become mushy upon thawing.

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